The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has commended the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her consistent and lifelong commitment to maternal and child welfare through the annual First Baby of the Year initiative.
Mahmoud described the initiative as a compassionate and enduring tradition that reflects the First Lady’s deep concern for the wellbeing of mothers and newborns, while symbolising hope, renewal and fresh beginnings at the start of each new year.
The minister spoke when she joined Senator Tinubu to welcome the first baby of 2026, delivered at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, Abuja.
Congratulating the parents and family of the newborn, Mahmoud said the birth of the first baby of the year represents a powerful symbol of hope and new possibilities for the Federal Capital Territory and the nation as a whole.
She also praised the dedication of healthcare workers—doctors, nurses, midwives and support staff—for their commitment to ensuring safe deliveries and quality maternal and child healthcare, particularly during festive periods.
Reaffirming the commitment of the FCT Administration under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Mahmoud said the administration would continue to strengthen the healthcare system through improved facilities, enhanced manpower and wider access to services.
“As we usher in 2026, let us recommit to safeguarding mothers and children, supporting families and fostering a healthier Abuja. Every child deserves the best start in life,” she said.
The minister further stressed that the FCT Administration, under the leadership of the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, remains committed to encouraging residents to prioritise health and family wellbeing as essential pillars for building a prosperous and inclusive society.
Meanwhile, the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat has commenced the distribution of essential neonatal kits to nursing mothers at primary healthcare centres across the six area councils of the territory.
Mandate Secretary of the Secretariat, Mrs. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, represented by the Director of Child Development Department, Dr. Idris Yahaya, said the initiative underscores the First Lady’s sustained concern for maternal and child welfare and her resolve to nurture hope from the very beginning of life.
Items distributed include baby wrappers and blankets, baby clothes, diapers, baby towels, soap, lotion or petroleum jelly, methylated spirit for cord care, hand sanitisers and other essential supplies.
Officials said the initiative is aimed at supporting nursing mothers and reinforcing the importance of quality maternal and child healthcare across the FCT.
